Abstract: “Introduction to Earth Science” is a basic disciplinary course and also the first professional course for junior students major in geology. It undertakes important tasks such as constructing a professional knowledge framework and cultivating interest of students in earth sciences. This paper systematically introduces the development process and achievements of “Introduction to Earth Science” at China University of Geosciences (Beijing), and focuses on the formation process and implementation effects of four teaching concepts such as “teaching the talents”. This paper also emphasizes that high-level teaching team is critical for curriculum construction. After years of teaching practice, a modular teaching system has been proposed, which highlights the key chapters but also has systematic effect. In terms of curriculum design, theoretical and practical lessons have the same amounts of classes, implying the practical characteristics of the course. The teaching method has gradually transitioned from classroom teaching in the past to a combination of classroom teaching, indoor and field geological practice, online learning, and virtual simulation of field practice. The reform and construction of the above-mentioned curriculum system in our university will provide some references for similar courses in related universities.

Key words: Earth Science, teaching concept, teaching method, practical teaching